On December 13, 2023, Morrison County hosted an informational meeting focused on the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), a destructive pest threatening ash trees across Minnesota. The meeting aimed to educate attendees about the biology of the insect, its detection, management options, and reporting methods for new infestations.

The Emerald Ash Borer, a metallic wood-boring beetle native to Northeastern Asia, was first identified in North America in 2002 after likely arriving via solid wood packaging materials. Since then, it has spread to 37 states and five Canadian provinces, with its presence confirmed in 46 counties in Minnesota, including Morrison County. The meeting highlighted the urgency of addressing this pest, as it has led to significant tree mortality, particularly in urban areas where ash trees are prevalent.

Participants learned about the life cycle of the EAB, which includes both one-year and two-year cycles depending on the region. The adult beetles are active from May to September, during which they mate and lay eggs in the bark of ash trees. The larvae then bore into the tree, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients, ultimately leading to the tree's death. The rapid population growth of the EAB can result in mass tree mortality within a few years, making early detection and management crucial.

The meeting also covered identification methods for EAB infestations, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the distinct S-shaped feeding galleries created by the larvae. Attendees were encouraged to report any suspected infestations to help manage and mitigate the spread of this invasive species.

In conclusion, the Morrison County meeting underscored the critical need for community awareness and proactive measures in combating the Emerald Ash Borer. As the pest continues to spread, local residents and officials must remain vigilant and informed to protect Minnesota's ash tree population and the ecological balance they support.